Indiana Landlord Move-In Disclosure Requirements for Renters

Are you preparing to rent a property in Indiana? It's important to know which disclosures your landlord is legally required to provide before you move in. Indiana law protects renters by ensuring you have key information about your living space and lease conditions.

What Must Indiana Landlords Disclose Before Move-In?

Indiana law requires landlords to provide several essential disclosures at or before the beginning of your tenancy. These disclosures ensure renters are well-informed about property conditions and legal obligations.

1. Name and Address for Official Notices

Landlords must provide the name and address of the landlord or authorized agent responsible for managing the rental property. This information allows you to know who to contact for rent payment, repairs, or notices. It is usually included in the lease agreement itself (Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31 – Rental Agreements).[1]

2. Disclosure of Lead-Based Paint Hazards (For Older Properties)

If the rental property was built before 1978, landlords must give you a federally required Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form. This means:

• You must receive the EPA's lead hazard pamphlet (Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home).
• Your lease should include a completed Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form (EPA Form 747-K-99-001), confirming whether the landlord knows of any lead paint hazards.
• Example: If you're renting a 1960s townhouse, your landlord must give you the EPA lead hazard brochure and ask you to sign the form acknowledging receipt before you move in.
• Official form: EPA Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form

3. Smoke Detector Information

Landlords in Indiana are required to provide functioning smoke detectors in every rental unit. While not always included in a written disclosure, your lease or property inspection should clearly state that smoke detectors are present and operational. Landlords must ensure detectors are working at the start of the lease (IC 32-31-5-7).[2]

4. Flood Zone Disclosure (When Applicable)

If the property is located in a floodplain or flood hazard zone, landlords must notify you. This is not always required, but check your lease for any mentions about flood risks, especially in higher-risk areas identified by FEMA maps.

5. Copy of the Lease Agreement

Your landlord must give you a copy of your signed lease agreement. This serves as proof of your rights, rental terms, and any disclosures included in the lease.

6. Inspection and Move-In Condition

While Indiana law does not strictly require a written move-in inspection report, it is considered best practice. Ask your landlord or property manager for a checklist of the unit's condition, or create your own and have both parties sign it with photographs if possible.

Official Tribunals & Relevant Legislation

Residential tenancy matters in Indiana are typically handled through the local Small Claims Court within your county. For legal information or to make a claim, visit the Indiana Judiciary Courts Portal. The primary laws governing rental disclosures can be found in Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31 (Landlord-Tenant Relations).[1]

Key Forms for Indiana Renters

• EPA Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form (EPA Form 747-K-99-001): Required for pre-1978 properties. Provided and signed at lease signing. View the official form here.
• Move-In Inspection Checklist: While not state-mandated, you can ask for or use this checklist to document the condition of the rental. There is no universal Indiana form, but you may find city or county resources or use Indiana tenant advocacy templates.

What If Your Landlord Fails to Provide Disclosures?

If a landlord does not provide the disclosures required by Indiana or federal law, you may have grounds to break the lease, withhold rent, or take action in Small Claims Court, depending on the situation. Always keep written records and seek legal advice if you're unsure of your rights.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the most important disclosure for Indiana renters before move-in?
   The EPA Lead-Based Paint Disclosure is required for homes built before 1978. Always ensure you receive this form and the informational pamphlet if applicable.
2. Does Indiana require landlords to perform a move-in inspection?
   While not legally mandated, it's wise to request or perform a move-in inspection checklist and have it signed by both parties.
3. Where can I file a complaint if my landlord does not provide the proper disclosures?
   You can address disputes in your local Small Claims Court or contact the Indiana Judiciary Courts for guidance.
4. Are landlords required to provide information about pests or mold before move-in?
   Indiana law does not specifically require disclosures about mold or pests, but ask for this information if you have concerns and document any issues upon move-in.
5. What if the landlord refuses to provide their name and address?
   This is required by law. If your landlord refuses, document your request and consider seeking legal support or address the issue in Small Claims Court.

Conclusion: What Indiana Renters Should Remember

• Ensure you receive all required disclosures before moving in, especially the lead-based paint form for older homes.
• Request a copy of your lease and keep all written communications.
• If your landlord does not comply, you have the right to seek help via local courts or legal resources.

Be proactive about your rights—doing so can prevent misunderstandings and protect your interests throughout your tenancy.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Indiana Judiciary Courts Portal – For court locations and tenant resources
• Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority – Renter assistance programs and housing advice
• Indiana Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division – File complaints against landlords or property managers
• Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31 – Full text of state landlord-tenant laws
• EPA Lead Disclosure Resources

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1. Indiana Code: Landlord-Tenant Relations (IC 32-31)
2. Indiana Code: Smoke Detector Duties (IC 32-31-5-7)
3. EPA: Lead Disclosure Rule for Renting

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